8 Books I Absolutely Plan to Read in 2018

Photo by Drew Coffman on Unsplash

I bought a lot of books in 2017. I mean, not as much as I could have, obviously, but compared to how many books I finished and read, it was more than could have possibly been approved if, like, I had an adultier adult telling what I should and shouldn't do with my money.

Last year (and the year before that and the year before that) I also took part in the Goodreads Book Challenge...and failed, miserably (all three years).  So, this year I am trimming things back and hopefully simplifying without cutting out the end goal of reading books.
Instead of saying "I will read 'x amount' of books" I am going to say "THESE are the books that I will have read by the end of the year." If I finish them and happen to read more? great! But if not, if I only finish these, I will still have completed something in its fullness and I can be proud of that.

So without further ado, here are the 8 books that I bought in 2017 that I absolutely, positively, must read in 2018:

• A Court of Mist and Fury // Sarah J. Maas: I bought both ACoTaR and ACoMaF at the same time, and absolutely blitzed through the first book. It...has taken me a bit longer to finish A Court of Mist and Fury and I can only chalk it up as to not wanting Tamlin to change (but, I love Rhys so....that should negate any bad feelings about Tamlin??). I started this book already, so I've already got, say, two chapters down? Honestly, I need to just commit some more time to finish it and I'm sure I'll get through it as fast as the first book.
• The Scarlet Letter // Nathaniel Hawthorne: Listen, not all of us had required reading in high school. For a large portion of my childhood, this was the classic we didn't mention. I'm fairly certain if I had picked it up, I would've been allowed to read it (with the exception of Harry Potter, my mom practically didn't vet what I read due to not being a reader herself) but the content always scared me away.  However, I am a big girl now, and I fully plan on delving into this weighty classic. 
• Wizard's First Rule // Terry Goodkind: When I was younger, I heard about Legend of the Seeker and honestly really wanted to watch the show. However, I could find it nowhere (legally and cheaply) and so I put it off.  Last year, I stumbled upon Wizard's First Rule and instantly went, "hey, isn't that...?" so, since I never got to watch the show (and tbh, I think I can safely say I outgrew the need to watch it), I'm instead opting to go with the book which inspired the show. Surely that can't be an awful trade-off.  This is another book that I have started, and frankly, I'm pretty impressed. Is it a fairly normal fantasy read? hecking yes. Do I like fairly normal fantasy reads? I'm trash for them. So, I think it'll be a good relationship. 
• Norse Mythology // Neil Gaiman: This one will probably be the first to be finished, simply because I'm already about halfway through it and, while I'm reading it, I'm also listening to it in audiobook.  I'm not a big audiobook fan, but I had a 9-hour car ride and, even though I had the book, decided to download the audiobook because it had Neil Gaiman reading it. That was a great idea. Gaiman's reading style is to die for, and he does the voices! Every voice is so pristine and perfect and look at me fangirling.  So, yes, with the combination of an audio-book I love and a collection of Norse Mythology stories that are funny, original and written as only Gaiman could write them, I'm sure it will be a quick finish. 
• The Great Gatsby // F. Scott Fitzgerald: I have a friend who spent the entirety of an almost hour-long car ride passionately discussing the greatness of this book, and frankly, I'd felt left out. The book had never before caught my attention, despite the roaring 20's being perfectly aesthetic. But the way she spoke about it made me feel like I might truly be missing something important. Besides, it's such a thin little book, I'm sure I could read it in no time. 
• A Flame in the Mist // Renee Ahdieh: I don't read much mainstream YA these days. Aside from Maas' series, I honestly didn't find my attention dramatically captured by very many YA books. A Flame in the Mist was one of those rare gems that did catch my eye.  While I've heard from other book bloggers that it cant, reliably, be called a Mulan retelling, the setting, and the storyline offers much to interest me.
• The Orphan's Tale // Pam Jenoff: This was a last minute buy towards the end of the year. It was majorly discounted at work and the synopsis sounded like a new twist on WWII stories. I'm a few chapters in and, honestly, it's remarkably charming.  A young childless mother saves a Jewish infant from a railway car ultimately headed toward's the baby's death, and then joins a circus. In the circus are remarkable people, and a woman who knows, better than most, the fear and terror that she's going through.  What's not to love? 
• Moon Called // Patricia Briggs: I place the full blame of this book on one of my dearest friends. When she got me hooked on this book dripping with fantasy and modern world realism, she opted not to tell me that there are 10 (11, if you count the extra...and even MORE if you count the spin-offs) books in this dang series. I don't know how she ever expects me to finish this series that is chock full of realistic and dang-pretty werewolves (honestly, this is the best, most honest and raw writing of werewolves that I have ever seen. The whole 'alpha male' thing isn't sexualized and they are written as real half-animals, half-men. It's very refreshing).  I guess I'm just going to have to start with finishing one book at a time and hoping to have them all done by the time I'm, I dunno, 40. 

What's on the top of your TBR list? 

Have you read any of the books on this list? 

If you made a similar post, I'd love to read it! Share the links in the comments and I'll be sure to stop by. 

She's unlocked the meaning for you

I was tagged by Rebelise, and I'm finally, finally, getting to it. Sorry, dearie! 

Her questions, which, I must comment on their brilliance.  They certainly had me thinking for answers:

 
1. L.M. Montgomery or Louisa May Alcott?
You know, that's a good question....I truly love both of their writing style, and characters.  However, I'm going to go with Montgomery, since there is just something in her writing that aspires you to be sweeter.

2. Do you listen to music while writing? If so, how important is music to your writing process? Do you do anything special to integrate music into your story-writing? (Okay, so I asked three questions. Oh well.)
Oh yes. I can't write without music, I draw a blank.  If I write an action/battle scene, I will use Two Steps From Hell , a dance or festival scene will have Blackmore's Night, certain scenes will cry for it's own unique song.  For example, in my NaNo novel, I have a pair of gypsy/charlatans, and I lived on Disney's 'Topsy Turvy', and 'Court of miracles'. Basically, when I start a scene, I think about the feel I want that Scene to have, and pick a song that helps. 

3. If you could have one of your original characters meet a character from your favorite book, who who would these characters be? 
I want Sullivan to meet Edward Cull- wait, thats not my favorite book....but it would be quite fun to watch Lord Sullivan Sanguini exterminate 'The Rogue Vampire Problem'...
I think I'd want Sullivan to meet Dracula instead...but wait...they do meet....Well, see, there ya go.

4. What is your biggest crush on a fictional character, if you ever had one?
Erik from Phantom of the Opera.  I'm not going to even go over how much my heart ached when I thought over how he died of a heart ache.  I cried myself to sleep the night after finishing the book.  However, Doyle's Sherlock Holmes ties pretty close.  I got pretty depressed when reality kicked in, and reminded me that Sherlock had never, and never will, exist. 
Also, Sky's Rane, Mirriam's Eristor, my Sullivan and My Vice all cut reeeeaaaaally close.

5. If you were writing a historical fiction novel, what time period would you choose for the setting? Why would you choose that time period?
Victorian or WW2.  I know the most about those eras, and love them too.

6. Would you want your story illustrated? If so, what kind of artistic style would you prefer? (manga, traditional, cartoonish, sketchy . . .?)
I kinda have a sort of aversion to pictures in YA/adult books...It ruins the fun of imagination.  And then it arises the problem, if a movie comes, it seems like it might be more difficult to find matching actors/actresses.

7. What is the biggest distraction for you while writing?
The Honorary Tea Spitters Club. Or, as we call ourselves....the Tea Spitters. 

8. If you have done or are currently doing NaNoWriMo, how do you set aside the entire month of November for writing?
Well, I kinda made it sorta clear to my family that I wouldn't stop my word count dragon from chewing them to pieces if they bothered me. It was hard, and on some days, I only got in 100 words because my family needed (*coughreallywantedcough*) to use our computer.  It stinks having just one computer that works mildly well in the house.

9. What are your thoughts on college as a writer? Do you view college positively, or as a hindrance to a writer?
I think college is a wonderful oppertunity to those who desire to go.  A writer's salary isn't the royal bounty, and it could help if you have a secondary job. Now, college isn't needed for that, but if you dream of being a writing Doctor, then by all means go.  I don't plan on attending college, or I don't think I do...What I want to do in my life can't be learned in a college session.  But I see nothing wrong with those who desire to.

10. If you had to choose, would you emulate from Charles Dickens' writing style, or from George Eliot's? Explain your choice.
Uhh....I've never read an Eliot work...So...Dickens...I 'spose.

11. What do people in your life think of you writing? Do they approve, or do they think you're strange? :)
My family honestly try supporting me, they are sweethearts, but they don't fully understand the needs and mental oddities a writer will posses. See, I've been writing all my life, but I was a closet writer until this past year, and even now I am pretty timid about letting people who I know in real life read my work.  Especially my parents.
So, they can't fully understand, since I'm the sole writer in the family.  And they are slowly learning that writing is just as much a talent and a skill you must hone as, saying, painting.   And all my friends are really good about it all, though.

 And now, these were so stolen from Mirriam's blog.  I was already answering questions, and so I was like, "Hey, why the everhood not?"


♥ Five ways to win your heart?  1) Call me 'Love'.  I know its a small thing, but it grinds on me like nothing else when a guy calls a girl 'babe'. She isn't a baby, and she isn't a pig. 2) Be considerate. When guys try to hard to be 'Mr. Toughguy' it bothers me.  I really find it heart tugging when a burnt marshmallow of a man shows his marshmallow side. 3) Love Christ with all his heart.  I find it really attractive when a guy is truly focused on Christ. 4) Cosplay. You know, if you propose to me in a dressed as a fictional character, I'm 50% more likely to say yes, ok? 5) Be fun. You dearly beloved followers might not know this, but I'm really timid, unless I have someone to be spunky with.  I'd toilet paper the mayor's house, but I need to take the side kick role.  The couple that pranks together stays together.


♥Something you feel strongly about? Abortion.

♥ A book you love? You said 'book' but I'm going to take it as plural. 'Phantom of the Opera' by Gaston Leroux, 'Dracula' by Bram Stoker, 'Chalice' by Robin McKinley, All the 'Lord of the Ring' series by J.R.R Tolkien, 'Great Expectations' by Charles Dickens, the 'Sherlock Holmes' stories by Arthur Conan Doyle, and 'The Scarlet Pimpernel' by Baroness Emmuska Orczy.  Yes, I do in fact realize most of those are oldies.

♥ Pet Peeves? *cracks knuckles* Ok, lets start this train. 1) Girls being called 'babe', as explained. 2) Romance novel covers. nuff said. I mean, come ON, no Vampire is that tan. 3) When people drag things I love in the mud if they haven't watched it. 4) When the eggs in a carton aren't even on both side. 5) when colors items aren't arranged in a pattern. 5) When people think Erik (POTO) is either all bad or all 'sexy'. He isn't 'sexy' at all, and is a self professed killer, and yet isn't just that. 6) Twihards.

 ♥ How comfortable are you in your own skin? I'm a teen girl, there will be days I'm not very comfortable, but for the most part I think I'm growing into this skin.

♥ Something you always think ‘what if’ about? What if we are really all Zombie/Vampire hunters during the night, but our mind's are wiped so not to terrify society, and we can't remember? Or, what if deja vu is actually proof that time travel is possible? What if dreams are an alternate reality? What if some TV shows, books, movies are things that really happened and it was made into a show/book/movie so we wouldn't believe it was real?

♥ Five things you really want? hmm...a Hedgehog, a Castle, A Pink Motorcycle, a plane ticket, and published book with my name in the Author spot.

♥ A quote you try to live by? "Always be yourself, unless you can be a unicorn, then be a Unicorn"

♥ Five guys you find attractive? Lee Joon, Tom Hiddleston, Skeet Ulrich, Orlando Bloom, and Basil Rathbone. I'd marry that last man, if he wasn't dead 60+ years....

♥ Five women you think are beautiful? Scarlett Johansson, Scarlett Pomers (Scarlets today...), Taylor Swift, Miranda Otto (as Eowyn) and Gates McFadden (Dr. Beverly Crusher).

♥ Something you’re currently worrying about? There is currently a personal matter that I don't wish to discuss, but if you follow me on twitter or if we are friends on FB, you know what it is.

♥ What do you hope your future will be like? I want to write forever up until I die. And someday I hope to own a tea and book nook in some British town. I want to live in a tiny, cute, cozy flat above it, and just spend my day keeping shop and writing. And, I hope to meet that special somebody, and we can live happily ever after. With out pet dragon and Unicorn.

♥ Five weird things that you like? The smell of Horses. When someone says I speak old fashioned (yep. Apparently I'm a Shakespearean actor with my fancy dawg language, y'all). Licorice Jelly Bellies. Pens that splurt out an unholy amount of ink. Being freezing cold.

♥ Something that you’re proud of? Well, as in myself, I'm proud of....uh...I dunno. O.o And of others...I really don't know either. o.O

♥ A problem that you’ve had? Well, I get angry REALLY easily. Like, hot headed Irish girl here. But I also forget EVERYTHING. Which, I suppose I guess is a good combo, when I get angry, it's like a white hot flash, and then I forget it. XD

♥ Something that you miss? Can you miss something you never really had? If yes, than England. I miss England.
 
♥ One thing you’re excited for? Les Miserables, The Hobbit, Star Trek 2, An upcoming shopping trip with my Mum, hopefully meeting Autumn when she moves, and Thor 2. And Sherlock season 3. Wait...you said 1 thing...oh well.

♥ Something that bullets your whole day? Well, since I'm pretty forgetful, not many things can truly ruin a day unless someone dies/is hurt/or some other tragedy.  But if my knees/spine start flaring up, than that too.

♥ Put your iPod on shuffle and name the first ten songs that play? Once Upon a December from the Anatasia movie, and At the Beginning from the same movie. Playing with the Big Boys Now (Hans Zimmer). Under a Violet Moon (Blackmore's Night). Undo It (Carrie Underwood). Lipstick (Orange Caramel). Angel of Music (Andrew Lloyd Webber). It's Time (Imagine Dragons). Africa (Toto). and River Lullaby (Hans Zimmer).

♥ Things you like and dislike about yourself? My hair. yep. and my long lanky legs.

♥ What are you wearing? Jeans, and pink frumpy shirt. It's comfy

♥ What do you think of school? We are unschooled, and I really really like it. Like, a lot.

♥ What makes you happy? How can something so immense be summed up in one post? A lot of things make me happy. Like when I create the perfect Bokah, when I write something beautiful, When my hair is nicely washed and behaving right.  Opening a new book, visiting the library.  The light my Atticus Lamp puts off, the darkness of my bedroom.  When I find the perfect pen, when Apples are sweet and crunchy.  Green eyes, and sweet words from friends.  Story updates from Mirriam, finding pictures of characters, new songs, and the color pink.  Chocolate and Hot french fries, long phone calls, and when my room stays neat.  Cloudy days, seeing the Union Jack in odd places, telling people "Allons-y!" and them responding correctly. Getting mail, and packages tied up with strings, and finishing sewing projects. Wearing new clothes, and riding a bike. Puppy kisses, and Kitten mews. Starting a TV show, and falling in love with fictional people. When I get a compliment, and when I give a well received compliment. When I say something funny, and when other's truly pay attention to what I say.  Romance novels that aren't sexual, and fangirl feels. Traveling and when I look pretty, and baby smiles.  Finding long words that I can use everyday, and the smell of roses. Having a little kid come and randomly start talking to me, and finding unlikely friends.
A lot of things make me happy.

♥ What makes you angry? Abortion, seeing teens who inflict self harm, ask for help, but don't really want help.  Being woken up before 7AM. Being talked to before 7AM. Being looked at before 7AM.  Having to move before 7AM.  Having to act like I don't want to eat brains before 7AM. Seeing Mother's treat their children like trash in public places, and knowing the kids get worse at home.

So, that was fun.  And I know I'm supposed to tag 11 more people for the first tag, but everyone I'd want to tag have been, so bleh. ;D

And, notice the new page up in my header's blue yonder? The one called 'My Adoxography'? Yep. It has all my current writing projects. Check it out if thou desire to know so.

And....I want to do a real to truly post soon, but I'm just caught in a whirlpool of current events in my life, (I'm not going to say much, but I have a new sibling.  His name is Samual Nathan, and he is probably not going to make it. This will be the first miscarriage in our family, so, it's hard. And I've been pretty much rocking and rolling the house so Mama can take it easy. Pray for us, please?). and writing. boy. I've done a lot of writing.

Ok, now.
tootles!

Villainous deeds indeed

I have a deep confession to make....

"I love Villains".

Its sadly very true.  I spend more time dreaming over the baddies in novels and books.  So, therefore, it's hardly no surprise that my NaNo novel is pretty depended on my villain. In fact, I have 'written' enough background on my Naranbaatar/Narl that I can probably write a book for him..which I totally should.

Anyway, I'd thought I should write a post about some of my favorite Villainous boys.

Should it be any surprise Loki is number one of this list? I mean, come on, honestly....

Is this the face of a malicious man? No? Yes? Well, whatever you answer, Loki is one of the coolest Villains. Coolest in many ways. He is the god of mischief. I can't help but think, I'd be good friends with Loki. And even in Mythology, He didn't do things to be bad, but to entertain himself. A trickster. A Joker. A cutie clown.  Of course, Tom Hiddleston playing Loki does influence that like factor.......Now, granted, he is much more bad in The Avengers, but I still think he isn't terrible.  Ok, no, he is terrible....but it all stems from being the innocent prankster somewhere down deep.  You all have permission to call me physco now.

Via

I honestly don't understand why I adore Durza....But for some reason, he seemed to be so much, more, then Eragon.  I was heart broken when he Durza died. I mean, come on, the most powerful Shade, gone because he lost his attention because a Dragon came through the roof...honestly? Honestly? Honestly?
I went through the second book moping over his death, and groaning each time because he wasn't there.
And I hated Eragon with a fury.
But, in book 3, I realized Eragon wasn't all that bad, and decided, him being the hero after all, I should try my hardest to like him. And I did.
But I still do a little heart sob whenever Durza's name comes up....

Via

Oy! It's everybody's favorite 12 year old Criminal master mind, Artemis Fowl!
From the moment I opened the book, I went, "Oh, this is a badass kid. I love him" and ever since, I've had mized emotions on this Young Moriarty. He is 12, I'm 16. I think I've grown to respect and adore in a big sisterly way.  Not so much outright adore. Though, I could. If he was older.
(Ya know its bad when you think, "If this boy was older, I'd love him" and he is fictional...*facepalm*)
But, of course, there is no discrediting Butler. I have said on many occasions I want a Butler like that.
Artemis embodies the little child in all of us, the child who still believes in Fairytales, with the cold cunning of a crime lord. How much better can it really get?

Via

{I have not, in fact, watched OUAT, but that does not affect my ever bounding affection for this giggling Villain}.  The first I ever saw of Rumpel was the traditional fairytale that, lets face it, is stupid. (Maybe i shall do a post on the stupidity of fairytales....).  I am rather pleased with the way Once Upon A Time redid this 'lovable' fellow.  The second I saw of him was a youtube video of him laughing in different scenes.
There is a phrase I'm looking for...oh...

"Hook, line and sinker".

How does someone so horrid be so adorable at the same time?  I have since watched every youtube video of him and Belle I could get my fangirl hands on. And, I have literally no idea how someone could hate him.  Durza, Loki, yeah, I can understand where they might have haters. But what is there to hate on this adorable little giggling bad dude?

Someone once told me they didn't like him becuase he is the villain, my reply?

"Well. Hate him then. I adore him. MY LITTLE SUNSHINE EVIL DARLING!"

So there.

Via

I'm not going to say much, since it's hard to concentrate on not blinking, and thinking up something witty to say....moving on....

Dracula was the first Villain I actually loathed. Yet...liked because he had won the loathe award. Ah, why am I so complicated? I have not watched any Dracula movies, just read the book (I actually haven't finished it...I need to do that...). And I won't let myself read it unless its late at night, and I'm the only one awake, because, that's just the way it should be read, in the dark, where every noise makes you squeak and dive under your blankets, as if that will ever protect you..... XD

No list of villainous punks would be complete with Jim (or James, whatever you prefer) Moriarty.  I was always intrueged by the Professor Moriarty in the story, and rather bummed out that he only had one story. I always wondered, who really, was this great man?

 The Basil Rathbone Moriarty was alright, except for the fact that he was 'killed' and yet, survived each time he came up, and had a complete change of face later on:

Which, was rather disgruntling, but, hey. Plastic Surgery can work wonders....I guess....

 

And then I saw Daniel Davis' portrayal as The 'honorable' Professor. In one Star Trek episode, they portrayed such a different, and yet, same, Moriarty then I had ever known, and it launched my love for this great baddie.   It showed a strangely human (Human...ehehehehehehe. Seeing how Moriarty was a holograph....And yes, that was a Loki laugh) Moriarty, one who actually was a person, and not just an embodiment of bad guy.

Daniel paved the way to big finale....

Andrew Scott=Best Moriarty ever. 

And then, to be fair, we can't leave Jared Harris' Mo out....

He did play a rather good Professor Moriarty, I like how they showed his 'Professor' side. Something the other portrayals of him seem to forget....He ISN'T just a bad guy.

But he is one mega Villain all the same.

And that concludes my favorite men of Villainous deeds, but, in any line up, we have our runner upers:

The Nazgul. I just like them. They be coolio. No reason, no argument to back myself up, I just do.

Ok, come on. I'll admit, the only reason Gru is a runner up is because, One) He isn't a villain at heart and Two) He is such a cliche villain. But, he pulls the cliche off very well....

I'd like to take a moment to think on this man's total badness. I mean, he is bad.  Truthfully, he should be more then a runner up. But, this is a list of my favorites, and he just isn't one of them.  He is a good Villain, a bad villain, a kick butt villain, a horrifying Villain, and honestly, a believable villain. He doesn't yell, but is soft spoken, he doesn't torture you (Unless you happen to be a certain fashion designer named Cinna...) but instead locks you in a room with poisons berries. But, like I said, this was a list of my favorites, not the best. 
President Snow truly is right up there with the best.

 

I honestly planned on putting Palpatine up in my favorites, but upon thinking about it, I decided to move him down here. He just isn't my favorite. Thats Darth Vader, and I've never considered Vader a villain...rather, an anti-hero, or lost hero, or Hero-what'cha-will. 

First off, let me state, Onceler is adorable.  Even his Greedler self is adorable.  I'm currently putting together a cosplay of his striped pants, vest and cute little hat.  

But He isn't truly the villain in 'The Lorax', At least not in the movie, and not really in the children's book either.  SO I can't really classify him as a 'favorite villain' but a 'favorite animated movie character'? Oh yes.  His face is now on my Laptop screen, my iphone lock and home page. 

I realize Mr. Joker deserves to be way higher on this list, but I haven't watched Batman, only the funny Joker clips, so here he stays.  But, Le Joker wins le reward for being able to make us laugh while still being horrified at his actions.

And, this is the end,  since I have the feeling I'm just pulling villains out of my head now, whether I like them or not, since I am enjoying this post so much. I should do more posts on Villains...actually no. The fact that I'm enjoying putting down all my favorite baddies might actually be disturbing...I should probably see a Doctor, the mental sort, for that...

So, thoughts? Do you agree? Disagree? who would you add to this list? Nothing pleases me more then comments, except chocolate, ya know. ^.^

Signed off with a computerish whirring noise, since this is a scheduled post, 

and therefore, controlled by the lovely thing that is blogger:

Ashley

Magic in the Air

Me and Lauren (@Cozifan on twitter) were discussing fantasy novels, and we rather got the idea that I should do a post on my favorite fantasy novels. Now, let me start off with saying, I am by no means an expert. Will you actually believe, I didn't read a single fantasy novel until this year? And I didn't even really know anything about LOTR?! It seems like such a dark and empty period of my life....kidding! A little....
Now, note, this isn't a list from favorites to least favorites, but from my first Fantasy read to my last fantasy read. 
So, I plug in my headphones and turn Blackmore's Night up to an indecent volume (I'll be deaf early...) and I'll try not to do a wild gypsy dance while writing this, but if you get an unexplainable typo, You'll bjkds know why. ;)

I start off with Robin McKinley's novel 'Chalice' for a very special reason.  It was my first Fantasy novel, and plunged me into this crazy love of the genre.
My Mom (Shocker to me, since she has always expressed a dislike of Fantasy) picked it up at the library and asked me if I thought it would be fine for my 8 year old sister.

Mirasol is a beekeeper, a honey-gatherer, with an ability to speak to the ÒearthlinesÓÑthe sentient parts of Willowlands, where she lives. The concerns of Master, Chalice, and Circle, who govern Willowlands, have nothing to do with herÑuntil the current Master and Chalice die in a fire and leave no heirs to take their places. The Master's closest relative has been a priest of Fire for the past seven years; he is not quite human anymore. And then the Circle comes to Marisol and tells her that she is the new Chalice, and it will be up to her to bind the land and its people with a Master, the touch of whose hand can burn human flesh to the bone. . . .

I wasn't quite sure whether it was suitable for a young reader, so I checked it out myself, telling her I'd read it and see. 

And thus began such heart rips, and heart breaks, and feels, and "Ohmigosh I can't EVEN"s.

It was beautiful. And more beautiful. And lovely. And The Master was beautiful. And mysterious and even more beautiful. I cried when I finished it, because it was OVER, and I didn't want it to be done. I clutched it to my heart, and traced the Master's name, and kissed the pages. 

For weeks, all I could talk about was how wonderful The Master was, and how perfect everything in it was.  I probably drove my brothers to near insanity by my countless breathless sighs, and never ending speeches about how beautiful The Master was. 

 I had found something more precious then any other novel I'd stuck my nose into.   It was aimed for an older crowd, and while my little sister couldn't read it, I did. twice. Before having to return it.  And to this day, while I love LOTR, The Inheritance Cycle, and many others, none take the place that Chalice sits in.  It was my first, it was the key to a door of wonder and magic and OHMIGOSH FEELS. 

I slid it across the return desk, with a heavy heart, and a lingering touch, and have yet to get my own copy.  I have it on my Paperbackswap wish list, but it seems no one is willing to list their up there.  So..uh....If anyone has a copy of Chalice just laying around your house, please list it on Paperbackswap.  I'll scream and giggle and dance around, saying lunatic things about a man who's touch alone can burn flesh. 

You'd make me a very happy girl.

The Redwall series was the next stop in my Fantasy journey, which was a lovely stop indeed.  Brian Jacques has risen to be one of my favorite Authors of all times.  He was such a talented man, the prose and poetry of his stories, the complete whimsical ness of them, the simple beauty of everything, it was like a breath of fresh air.   Who ever knew that Mice could be more delightful to read about then Men? Badgers have gained a special place in my heart, and Moles just give me warm fuzzies. (I can speak in Mole speech, so there. I do it quite frequently, and 'ardly a soul can understand me).   I was so happy when I discovered the whole set all standing together on our library shelfs, and I quickly snatched up as many as a could, reading nothing else but them for a good couple of months.
Redwall isn't just a story that stays with you, you stay with it.  I left a piece of my heart at the good abbey, and a piece at Salamandstron, and a good bit all scattered round about the fair world that it was set in.  It was another story that made me cry when I closed the final book's final page.  I grow homesick for good ol' Redwall with it's Moles and "Wot Wot!" Hares, and meals that never passed without a laugh.
Can I share a secret with you guys? Thank you.
There was so much mention of food, and the descriptions of thus said food were always so appetizing (Even though in real life, who would dare eat such animal fodder?) that my appetite went up.  I have never been a big eater, and when we go to Sonny's, I can never finish my plate, but have to bring a doggie bag home. Nope. Not with Redwall. We went to Sonny's, and I ate all of my food, then proceeded to finish off everyone's else. My family gave me weird looks as I stuffed my face in a way that probably shockingly resembled a Rabbit's feast. I just couldn't stop. So, if you plan on reading Redwall, make sure your pantry is well stocked, and some good Otter Soup (I seriously want to try Otter Hot Root soup....) wouldn't harm you either.

Most of you have probably read this series, so I'm not going to go into detail about the summary or anything.
It was my first step into the Dragon world, and I can't read books where they picture Dragons as just animals without feeling a little ticked.
"Dragons are sentient beings!!!" My soul cries.
I ended the first book a little....badly. I hated Eragon for killing Durza, the second book was spent pretty much still hating him, picking at every flaw of his, and just being an all around sour puss.  But, by the time I reached the third book, I realized, Durza was dead, I needed to let him go.  Eragon is the hero after all.   And, I liked him much better, I was able to see his good points. While Durza still yet remains my favorite, I like Eragon too.
I am now obbsessed with all things Dragon and I've been known to say "Brsinger!" in futile hopes of something actually happening.  I'll let you know once I master it.  I'm still trying to get the hang of my force push.

"As far back as he can remember, the orphan Grady has tramped from village to village in the company of a huckster named Floyd. With his adolescent accomplice, Floyd perpetrates a variety of hoaxes and flimflams on the good citizens of the Corenwald frontier, such as the Ugliest Boy in the World act.
It’s a hard way to make a living, made harder by the memory of fatter times when audiences thronged to see young Grady perform as “The Wild Man of the Feechiefen Swamp.” But what can they do? Nobody believes in feechies anymore.

 Unless Floyd and Grady can make them believe.
When Floyd stages an elaborate plot to revive Corenwalders’ belief in the mythical swamp-dwellers known as the feechiefolk, he overshoots the mark. Floyd’s Great Feechie Scare becomes widespread panic. Eager audiences become angry mobs, and in the ensuing chaos, the Charlatan’s Boy discovers the truth that has evaded him all his life—and will change his path forever."

A fantasy novel set in a world a lot like the Southern USA's Backwoods?  It rolled out in a very interesting way, indeed.
The Charlatan's boy helped me realize how much I wished to roll around in a cart, peddling false wares, and selling lies, an unchristian occupation, I know, but entertaining all the same.
One moment, it would have you rolling on the floor laughing, and the next, you'd be reaching for the kleenex box.  This Emotional Roller Coaster remains one of my fond favorites.
Grady is a rememberable character, and you wish to just take him up in a hug, and wash all the grime from his face, and give him a home where he can have love, and a family.
I cried in the ending, because it was just so beautiful. It was just so sweet and lovely, and just perfect.
This book is one of the strangest Fantasies I've yet to read, it was weird and quirky, yet, it was perfect.
In it's own, quirky, funky, and unique way.

And here we come to the series I know you all were waiting to hear me mention.  I feel like I have 'arrived' now that I have read LOTR.  You know when you open a book, and you know you are about to begin a beautiful and amazing journey? Thats how I felt as I cracked this open, gently touched the pages, and took my first step on the road that goes on and on. 

I am now a whole hearted fan of All things Tolkien, I want to learn Elvish, I can't decide whether Aragorn or Legolas is the more beautiful man, I get Arwen/Aragorn feels daily, and I have decided I want to be just like Eowyn when I grow up. I hum the song and talk about Potatos and Second Breakfasts, and I say, "Don't tell the Elf" as well as "It Still only counts as one!".

A Prince is returning from a long war, on the ride home, he meets a milk maid, kisses her, and they fall quickly in love.  They go their separate ways, yet their feelings are so strong, they cannot forget each other, and before the week has ended the Prince returns to her, falling on his knee, and pleads with her to become his Princess.  Her family is quite overjoyed at the good luck befallen their daughter, and the marriage is arranged, quickly and they live happily ever after.

No, scratch that, it actually goes quite this way: 

A Prince is returning home from a tediously long war.  On the ride home, he, in the flurry of the moment, kisses a milk maid hanging out the clothes.  Rather embarressed, they both try to forget the happening.  He returns home, and yet feels terrible for his action of kissing her.  He returns to her, since he considers it his duty to give her the offer of marriage, and yet he hopes beyond all hopes that she says no. Her Father sets him on a course of seemingly impossible quests in order to prove his character, and it just goes downhill from there.

Almost downhill.

Like 'The Charlatan's Boy', Everard is a dramatically hilariously quirky tale.It takes what we thought of fairytale, and makes you think again.  It has a dragon, a giant, an enchantress, and a Prince who played dead. A Giant sea monster, and a pearl of great price. It has romance, it has quests and journeys, friends and duels, treason and trust.

It's really a marvelous Book. 

It's written by Chautona Havig, by the way. You should buy it, by the way take 2.

 (Read my review of it HERE)

Fantasy has become a part of my life, a special one, I halfway believe in Dragons and Unicorns, I wish to someday peer through bushes and find a faerie, and retrieve an arrow for an Elf. Perhaps I might find a Nazgul, or a Fire Priest. Perhaps I'll stumble upon a mini Mouse Abbey in a meadow, or a Badger Mountain. Someday, I want to get a Dragon tattoo on my palm in hopes that I will someday utter "Brsinger" and it actually works.  And I dress in Medieval clothes and call myself Lady Lithoniel (the Elvish translation of Ashley).  I wish I had read Fantasy sooner, but I'm glad I did before it grew later.

The Road goes ever on and on

Down from the door where it began.

Now far ahead the Road has gone,

And I must follow, if I can,

Pursuing it with eager feet,

Until it joins some larger way

Where many paths and errands meet.

And whither then? I cannot say.

Yes, I should be writing my NaNo novel. I reached 24K, WOOWOOO!!!!!

This is what Bloggers do when their blogging inspiration goes 'poof!'

A question run down! (To which, guys...this vlog thing is REALLY not working. :-/).

1 What's your middle name?

 Kayle. Like the leafy green plant, but with a Y. It's actually a mix between my Grandmother's names (Gale and Kay). They were kinda disputing over who I'd be named after. First Grandbaby, ya know how it is.

2 What was your favorite subject in school?

History, Lititure and....Thats it. lol

3 Are you named after anyone?

Uh hem. ^^^^^ My Nana and Meemaw. .

4 What color are your eyes?

Light blue/Grey. Sometimes they are more like blue, sometimes they are undoubtably Grey, and sometimes they look a little Green even. My eyes are very confused and wishy washy things.

5 Are you a gamer?

I could be. If our parents would let us have a Wii, Xbox or even a playstation. Yep. I'd go Assassin's Creed FTW!

6 Favorite colors?

Aqua/turqoise, Purple, Pink, Red, Brown, Black. Gold and Loki Green.

7 Favorite animal? 

 Equine. I want a Horse so bad, it hurts. Then, Hedgehogs, Fox, and Owls. And Cats. But Cats are...are they even animals? lol

8 Favorite perfume?

Vanilla Fields. I'll quote Grey (one of my characters from Masqueraders): "Perfume stinks. It smells like chemicals with, oh look, a little fake flower". Vanilla Fields smells like Vanilla and wont kill you (or Grey, or Me) with the smell of chemicals that reminds me and Windex.

9 Favorite holiday?

My brithday? We all know I'm just that fabulous...lol just kidding. Lets see, my family doesn't celebrate Halloween, Easter, Christmas, Hannakah, April's Fools, so, I think I'm left with New Years and Thanksgiving. Its a pretty easy choice between those. I'd like to celebrate Chinese New year, however. I think it would be fun.

Thanksgiving.

10 What's your hidden tallent?

uhm...well, most people I know IRL don't know I can sing, because, surprise surprise, I never do it in public. And...I can write name poetry pretty much on the spot.

11 How many siblings do you have?

8! See that family page way up ^there^?  Go read it.

12 Who is your favorite youtuber(s)? 

Rhett and Link, MsSHERlocked, Julian Smith. WOW. I never thought I'd list Julian as a favorite. seems I surprise even myself.

13 What is your favorite movie?

Hmm....Lets see...*Rubs Hands*.We'll start off with POTO, add a spice of all the Night at the Muesums. and perhaps toss some Hunger Games, and finish it all off with a touch of Thor. Sound good?

14 What is your favorite tv show?

Star Trek (though they are no longer running).

15 What kind of phone do you have?

Iphone. Her name is Irene, and for a short while, I had my screen saver that was "I am 0000 Locked", and the password was really SHER. but, I changed it. So nanananananana!!!

16 How tall are you?

Uhm...5 something, I'm like 5'6. I think.

17 What is your relationship status?

Delightfully single.

18 What always makes you feel better when you’re upset?

Well, I actually did a post a bit ago about my anger management process. First off, I listen to angry music. Monster by Skillet and Despicable Me by Pharrel Williams are good examples. Then, I play Chess by myself. I always make the black ones win. Then, I write angry things in my journal. Then, I listen to Phantom of the Opera music, and I'm normally in a good mood after all that. If I can't do any of those things, I smile prettily and think of what I would do to the people who MAKE me upset if they were a character.

19 What's your b-day?

Febuary 11th.

20 If you where a superhero, what power would you choose, and what would your name be?

I've thought long and hard about this, I want to be able to summon animals from the surrondings. like, an Ice Dragon, or, Sand Horse. While i wouldn't be 'super' per say, I'd still have 'powers'. And my name should be some sort of Ninja-y sounding thing.

21 What quote/phrase do you live by?

I have 2:

"Follow your heart, but take your brain with you"

and

"Be a Froot Loop in a Cheerio World."

22 If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go?

Uh, *coughcough* London. Paris. Europe period. New York.

23 Who is your celeb crush?

huh? Celeb crush? I don't really...ok. I don't have a 'crush', but I greatly admire Tom Hiddleston, David Tennet, Matt Smith, Gerard Butler and Benedict Cumberbatch. Great Scott, look at that. They are all British! Well, Gerry isn't, but he is close to it.

24 Do you use sarcasm a lot?

.........

........yes.

25 What is you favorite go to lipgloss or lip balm?

Uhm...I really don't have one.

26 Are you left hand or right hand?

Right as the Right!

27 What would you name your children?

:Girls:

Beverley Daae

Scarlet

Mystrel

Lillian Grace

Graelyn

:Boys:

Erik Dechagney

Key (MMIIIRRRIIAAMM)

Vice

Sherlock Blackney

Percy Holmes

Yes. most are from movies/books. Hate on me, I dunno care. My kids are gonna be AWESOME.

I got this from Autumn. I stoled it. XD

en ce moment//Currently

//Listening//

Taylor Swift's Love Story

Siblings watching Star Trek: Voyager

//Loving//

Taylor Swift's Safe and Sound

Life without Bicycle Breaks.

Sullivan, my Character.

Kyo and Yuki,and Shigure, and Momiji, and Hatori, and everybody on Fruits Basket. Except Akito. He/She is a creep. And a meanie head. HE PRETTY MUCH BLINDED HATORI AND HAS EMOTIONALY SCARRED THEM ALL. Shame Akito. Shame on you.

//Pictures//

//Wanting//

To hug Sullivan, who is my epicest character, BTW.

A Milkshake.

To be on The Enterprise.

My Sherlock Holmes book to hurry up and ship itself to my mailbox.

To Learn French, Korean and Klingon.

//Today//

We had a lazy morning, and the little girls watched about 5 Star Trek: TNG while I wrote. and then we went to ride bikes. I found out my bike's brakes were practically nonexsistant, which made for a fun ride. Even if I did complain, it was still fun. And then we went to eat Dinner at a place I shall not name...ok..McDonalds. Hang me. We deserve a treat after eating so healthily lately. I got a  Frozen Strawberry Lemonade, which smelled better then it tasted. Just sayin'.

//Posts I ♥//

Jocee's Fiction Friday

Rachel's Snippets

//Reading//

Scott Westerfield's Midnighters: Secret Hour

Well, thats 'bout it.

saranghae

saranghae to all of you!

(Kudos to those who understand what 'saranghae' means....Mirriam?).

Choses J'adore

{{Loving}}

Owl City

Sherlock Holmes.

Hirogen in Nazi uniforms (you'll just have to watch the Star Trek episode to understand)

Story inspirations.

Late night Text conversations.  

{{Wishing}}

To watch Dr. Who soon.

To read The Hunger Games, Ms. Holmes, and The Beekeeper's apprentice. 

{{My Heart}}

I love how normal she seems!

{{Listening}}

"This is a world of dreams and reverie
Where I felt the stars explode around me"

-Strawberry Avalanche-

"Met a girl in the parking lot
And all I did was say hello
Her pepper spray made it rather hard
For me to walk her home
But I guess that's the way it goes"

-Deer in the Headlights-

Oh Oh number {part 2}

007

typing in lowercase because i am holding a sleeping baby in one arm, and can't press the shift key.  and thinking, "it's ok, ashley. what matter more? shiloh, or capitol letters?"

008

the word, 'maestro'.

009

people who have the same interests as me.

010

musicals.

and music period.

011

dreams

even the bad, scary kinds.

012

gifs

013

yellow twinkie like minions

014

e-buddies

Nova 

Grace Anna

Mikayla.

Fairfallen,

11-11-11 Tag

Destiny over at Adorkable (I've said this before, and I say it again, genius name! ♥) Tagged me in a 11 answers, 11 odds, and 11 questions tag! Here are the rules as follows, as EVERY tag has a rule of sort!

1) post these rules

2) you must post 11 random things about yourself
3) answer the questions the tagger set for you in their post
4) create 11 new questions for the people you tag to answer
5) go to their blog and tell them they've been tagged

Eleven Random things....This should be as easy as cheesecake!

one. I was born a Warsies, but became a Trekkie.

two. I am a grammar freak.  I am constantly annoyed by Facebook talk, and not using Capitols.

three. Yes, I'm a natural blond.  No, not that way..I naturally have blond hair. Yeah, thats what I meant.

four. I've lived in North FL all my life, yet hate heat, and have only been to the beach a handful of times.

five.I like Steampunk.

six. And I love the Mad Hatter.

seven. I am the Queen of random information that has no purpose but to inform.  If there is a movie, Actor, Show, book, historical figure, or place I am very interested in, you can bet I have at least 2 completely useless bits of knowledge about it.  You should hear me prattle on about Star Trek facts...☺

eight.I mostly prefer Bad Guys in books/movies. I mean, COME ON! They always have the best weapons.

nine. My heart gets all happy when I hear that someone else loves anything I love.

ten. I want to move to Europe.

eleven. I'll take a Hideous phantom of the Opera over Edward sparklebottom anytime!! {Edward Sparklebottom...*heehee* I so smart and creative!}

Here are the answers Destiny provided for me to answer, now!

1. Silk or Plush? Plush. plush. plush. Silk is just to silky for me.

2. Favorite Book series?  The C.H.O.A.S society!!!!

3. Do you wear your hair up or down most of the time? Down.  I don't like the way I look when it's up.

4. Bacon... do you like it?  Yes, that is, if i don't have to cook it.  If I do have to cook it, I don't like it.

5. Favorite quote?  I notice it doesn't say quotes  so, that means I'll have to choose just one....Give me a moment, the answer will be at the bottom of this post.....

6. Marker, crayon, or colored pencil? Colored Pencil. Markers bleed, and Crayons are just too crayon-y.

7. How many letters are in your full name? A-1 S-2 H-3 L-4 E-5 Y-6.  Ashley.

8. Got a celebrity crush?  No. Yes. Maybe....

9.  Mustache or Beard? Actually, I have none of those.  aaaannndddd....for guys? It all depends on the guy.

10. Converse or Sneakers?  Ya know, I've never actually worn Converses.  So, I'll have to say Sneakers, to wear, but Converse if you want to look cute. And Amazing.  And Cool.

11. Hot summer days or Snow filled mornings?  Snow filled Mornings!!! 

 

And my 11 questions for the ones I tag:

1. Do you prefer Classics or New books?

2. What color is your room?

3.  What era is your favorite?

4.  Do you like Organs (the musical instrument)?

5. What color do you detest?

6.  If you could pick one place in the world to live, where?

7. Whats your favorite quote?

8. What sites do you visit often?

9. What is your dream house like?

10. Favorite movie?

11. Favorite Book?

Now, I must tag 11 other people....eenie minee, MOE!

1. Natalie from The Journal of Natalie Rose

2- Katie from My life in a Nutshell

3- Madison from It's Called life.

4- Qui from Ect.

5. Amarathine from Amarathine forever.

6. Autumn from An Autumn Day.

7. Miss Gwenea from Femininity and Daydreams.

8. Hannah from Hann-y.

9. Jedi~chick from To Thine own Self be True

10. Lucia from Lucia Etc.

11. Su and/or Gary from In Everything Give Thanks.

Joanna, I would've done you, but your blog isn't pulling up for some reason..but, if you want to do it anyway, go ahead!

As promised, the quote....Hmm...I've had all this time and I still don't know...maybe more then one...☺

“Poor, unhappy Erik! Shall we pity him? Shall we curse him? He asked only to be 'some one,' like everybody else. But he was too ugly! And he had to hide his genius or use it to play tricks with, when, with an ordinary face, he would have been one of the most distinguished of mankind! He had a heart that could have held the entire empire of the world; and, in the end, he had to content himself with a cellar. Ah, yes, we must need pity the Opera ghost...”
~Gaston Leroux~
'Phantom of the Opera'

Anything from Alice in Wonderland!

and:

"The more that you read,  The more that you know.   The more that you learn, the more places you go."

~Dr. Suess.

Happy?